easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels, no special physical conditions required
Discover the magic of the night sky at Westcave’s Star Party, where astronomy meets Texas outdoor beauty. Perfect for all ages, this event offers guided telescope views amid stunning natural surroundings.
Once a Month • 2025 Dates through July Open!
Experience an enchanting evening of stargazing at Westcave Preserve, a prime dark sky location near Austin. Enjoy breathtaking views through high-quality telescopes, guided by local astronomers. Bring your own chairs and blankets for comfort, and indulge in snacks while learning about the cosmos in a serene, light-controlled environment.
Adult Non-Member - $25 Adult Member - $20 Child - $10
2 hours (+ 30 mins check in time)
Tour the night skies at Westcave Preserve, a dark sky location convenient to Austin. Star Party nights are an ideal opportunity to enjoy an evening gazing at the stars through a high quality telescope.
With local astronomers on hand to answer questions, you'll be delighted and amazed by what you see and learn!
The star party will occur in our parking lot on pavement. You are welcome to bring portable chairs and blankets to the telescope viewing area. Snacks and beverages are allowed in the viewing area, but please consume them away from the telescopes and take your trash home with you. No glass please! Water is highly recommended as water will not be available.
Maintaining night vision is important and using a red filtered flashlight is the best way you can help. Please refrain from using any other lights, camera flashes or cellphones. If your child has light up shoes, please cover the light area with thick tape or have them wear a different pair of shoes.
This event takes place in our parking lot. You can NOT access the canyon or cave via this event. Access to the canyon and cave is available as a public Guided Canyon Tour.
What is your Cancellation Policy: Customers MUST provide a 24-hour notice via email to request a rebooking or full refund/credit for any reason. If Westcave cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers will receive an email notice and a full refund. To cancel, click the "Cancel Booking" link under the picture of the grotto on your confirmation email. If you have any difficulties, please contact us by sending an email to info@westcave.org. No-shows will be charged the full price.
What is your current COVID-19 Policy? Please DO NOT visit Westcave if anyone has close contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19. Visitors who are feeling under-the-weather should not visit Westcave. We welcome you back you when you are better. We still require 24-hour’s notice to cancel your reservation for a refund or to rebook.
Tour Cancellation Due to COVID-19? In the unfortunate case we have to cancel your tour due to COVID-19 related staff shortages you will be notified within 24 hours of your tour time. If your tour is canceled, you will receive an email to offer a rebooking or a full refund. If your tour is not canceled, you must still provide 24-hours advanced notice to request a refund or rebooking for any reason.
Can I take a ride share to Westcave? Please DO NOT take a ride share (ex. Uber, lyft) to Westcave. We are outside the service range for pickups and you may become stranded.
Do you have restrooms? Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available for guest usage. Cleaning and disinfecting procedures are in place.
Do you allow pets? No pets are allowed on the premise of Westcave Preserve, even if on a leash, and may not be left in a vehicle. If you are found with a pet on the Preserve or locked in your car, you will kindly be asked to leave. We recommend visiting Milton Reimers Ranch Park (2 miles away) if you want to spend time outside with your pet.
Can we swim at Westcave? There is no swimming at Westcave or access to the Pedernales River.
Getting there early ensures a comfortable spot for your chairs and blankets, especially on busy nights.
Evening temperatures can drop; packing layers and snacks keeps you cozy and energized.
Red light preserves night vision, helping you see without disturbing others.
Clear skies are necessary for optimal stargazing—plan accordingly.
Westcave Preserve has been a protected natural area since the 1970s, dedicated to conserving Texas’s unique limestone geology.
The preserve practices sustainable tourism by limiting visitor impact and promoting environmental education.
Provides a comfortable seat for long hours of stargazing.
Keeps you warm and comfortable during outdoor night viewing.
Allows safe navigation and reading without affecting night vision.
Prevents getting cold during evening hours, especially in cooler months.
winter specific